What should be avoided if there is brain or spinal cord involvement?

In cases of brain or spinal cord involvement, it is important to manage metabolic state carefully. Glucose should be avoided because hyperglycemia can exacerbate neurological damage. High levels of glucose can lead to further complications including increased cerebral edema and neuronal injury, particularly in conditions such as hypoxia or trauma.

Maintaining stable glucose levels is crucial for optimal brain function, especially when neural tissue is already compromised. Elevated glucose can result in an increased metabolic demand within injured tissues, further worsening outcomes. Thus, monitoring and controlling glucose intake or administration can be pivotal in the management of patients with neurological injuries.

The other substances, like sodium, protein, and potassium, play different roles in cellular and metabolic processes that may not have as direct or harmful an effect on patients with neurological issues as elevated glucose does.